Why is Your Aircon Leaking and How to Fix it?

Neglecting regular aircon maintenance could lead to potential risks such as aircon water leaks. These leaks can cause damage to furniture, increase electricity bills, and pose a safety hazard due to slippery floors. Understanding the causes of aircon leaks and how to fix them can save you time and money. Read on to learn more about troubleshooting tips for aircon leaks.

Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Temperatures

One possible cause of aircon water leaks is a decrease in outdoor temperatures, especially during the rainy season, which can cause certain components of your aircon to freeze, resulting in condensation. The drying time for the water may also increase. As a result, water can accumulate in the condenser pan, causing it to overflow. To avoid this problem during rainy weather, it is best to wait for sunnier weather conditions before using your aircon again.

Poor Aircon Maintenance

Air conditioners, like other household appliances, need regular maintenance to operate efficiently. Neglecting to clean and maintain your aircon can result in water leaks. If you prefer to perform your own aircon maintenance, pay close attention to the aircon components.

Dirty Air Filters

Air filters are often overlooked when it comes to aircon maintenance, but they are a crucial factor in preventing water leakages. A clogged air filter restricts the airflow to the evaporator coil, causing it to freeze and then melt, leading to water leakages. 

To avoid this, it’s essential to clean the air filter regularly, ideally every three months or less. If you need help with aircon cleaning or aircon servicing, it’s best to reach out to an experienced aircon servicing company. Don’t wait until it’s too late, take good care of your aircon to avoid any water leakages.

Improper Aircon Installation

In case you encounter water leakage issues with your newly installed aircon unit, it is crucial to check if your aircon is installed properly. A faulty aircon installation, rather than clogged filters or drain lines, is often the cause of water leakage. It is essential to verify that the aircon unit is installed on a flat surface, slightly tilted downwards for easy water drainage. You should also ensure that the seals are fitted correctly to avoid condensation that causes leaks. 

Even if a homeowner may follow DIY aircon servicing guides faithfully, this issue might still require professional aircon servicing. Thus, you should contact a trustworthy aircon service company with expertise in aircon installation to address the problem.

Clogged Drain Line

A blocked drain line is a frequent culprit when it comes to aircon leaks. This pipe is responsible for collecting and channelling condensation from the drain pan outside. Without the steps for proper aircon cleaning, dirt and debris can accumulate in the drain pipe and obstruct the flow of water. The trapped water may then flow back into the drainage tray, causing a leak that often starts at the back of the air conditioner. This issue is not easily accessible or solvable by the homeowner and requires the assistance of a professional aircon service company to unclog the drain line.

Air Leak

Air leaks can lead to water leakage from your aircon. This happens when warm air gets into the unit but does not pass through the vent. Moisture then condenses on the refrigerant coils causing water to seep out of the aircon. Loose seals can also cause air leaks, which is why it’s important to get professional aircon repairs or replace them as needed.

Low Levels of Refrigerant

The refrigerant coolant is responsible for cooling the warm air and blowing it out to provide comfort. If there is not enough gas, your aircon will not blow cold air, and the air may not condense on the evaporator coil leading to water leakage. If you hear a bubbling noise or hissing sound, it could be an indication of a coolant leak. In this case, you will need an aircon repair to top up the gas. However, if you suspect that your aircon is leaking refrigerant, contact an aircon service immediately, as it can be harmful to you and the environment.

Broken Condenser Pump

A damaged condenser pump is another common cause of water leakage in the aircon. This important aircon part is responsible for pumping out all the water from the condenser pan, which is located below the cooling oil. Dirt buildup can cause the pump to malfunction, but if it appears to be clean, it’s possible that one or more of its components may be damaged. Check to make sure the power supply connected to the pump is not cut off. To confirm whether your pump is working properly, check if water is being released into the condenser pan. If not, have your condenser pump repaired or replaced immediately.

Damaged Drain Pan 

When the drain pan overflows, any type of air conditioner may start leaking water. The pan is made of iron and is prone to rust and corrosion, which can cause gaps that allow condensation to leak from the pan. Since the drain pan is not easily accessible, it’s best to contact professional air conditioning services to fix the issue.

Leakage In The Condenser 

The condenser unit, which is located outside your house, consists of the condenser coil, compressor, and fan motor. Due to its location, it can accumulate a lot of dirt and grime, leading to blockages that cause the air conditioner to leak water. This issue is similar to the causes of aircon leaks mentioned above. In severe cases, an aircon chemical overhaul service may be necessary. 

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Frozen coils are a common cause of aircon leaks. You can check for a layer of ice on your evaporator coils by opening the front panel of your aircon. Frozen coils can result from a refrigerant leak or reduced airflow on the coils, which can be caused by a clogged air filter. There are many reasons why evaporator coils may freeze, so it’s best to call an aircon servicing company to diagnose the issue. 

How To Fix A Leaking Aircon By Yourself?

In case the aircon leak is not too severe, you may try fixing it yourself with some DIY aircon repair tips. Cleaning your aircon on a regular basis can help prevent such issues and save you time and money. Here are some pointers to keep in mind when cleaning your aircon:

• Make sure to turn off your aircon and disconnect it from the power source.
• Remove the cover of your aircon so that you can inspect the vent from where the air is sucked in. If the vent is blocked due to dirt buildup or any other cause, the cool air may be circulating into other areas.
• Check the seals around the vent and cooling section for any possible air leaks.
• Examine the condenser pump and pan for any dirt buildup.
• Use a wire brush to remove dirt, dust, and debris from your aircon’s installed parts.
• For tougher dirt that may be sticking to the vent, compressor pan, and other components, use a cleaning solution to ensure that they are completely removed.
• After cleaning your aircon parts, dry them thoroughly to eliminate any moisture.
• Finally, reassemble your aircon and test it to verify that no more water leaks are present.

Engaging A Professional Aircon Service Company  

If you’ve attempted to clean your aircon but it still leaks water, there’s a chance that certain parts might be damaged. In such situations, it’s best to seek help from a professional aircon maintenance company. 

You can start with the best aircon servicing companies when choosing a professional. Therefore, when selecting a service provider, ensure that they specialize in various aircon services and offer fair and reasonable pricing. To confirm their service quality, check their past aircon repairs and customer reviews.

Conclusion

There can be various reasons why your aircon is leaking water. Some of the common causes include a clogged drainage system, dirty air filters, frozen coils, or damaged components. To fix common aircon issues like this, you can either try cleaning the aircon yourself or engage the services of a professional aircon maintenance company. 

Cleaning your aircon regularly and replacing air filters can help prevent future leaks. Remember to take proper safety precautions when handling electrical appliances and always consult a qualified professional if you are unsure about how to proceed with repairs. A well-maintained aircon can help you stay cool and comfortable during hot weather while saving you money on energy bills.

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